Definition: The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 13:4. It's a really insightful piece about how our lives are affected by effort and dedication. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that those who work hard and put in the effort will reap rewards, while those who don’t and just sit around will be left with nothing. It's a message about the benefits of being busy and focused. Let's unpack it word by word: “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing” : This part is key. "The soul" refers to your spirit, your mind, or your inner life. It’s what makes you you . "Desireth" means wants or longs for something. It suggests a lack of motivation and a desire for something more. “Hath” is a present tense verb meaning “has.” So it’s saying the sluggard already doesn't have anything – they’re lacking in motivation and purpose. “But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.” : This is the positive outcome! "The diligent” means someone who works hard, is focused, and is actively pursuing something. It’s about being productive and engaged. “Shall be made fat” – this isn't just a simple statement of "will become rich." It means your life will flourish , you will grow in abundance , or you will experience fulfillment . It suggests growth, prosperity, and happiness. In simpler terms: It’s about the power of effort! When you work hard and are focused on something, your spirit (soul) grows stronger and fills you with good things - it's like a tree that grows fruit because it's watered and nurtured by effort. Overall Meaning & Application: This verse encourages us to be proactive and put in the work. It’s not about laziness; it’s about recognizing that consistent effort, dedication, and hard work leads to greater rewards – both materially and spiritually. It's a reminder that our lives are built on what we do , not just what we have . --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Proverbs? Discuss the meaning in a different way (perhaps relating it to a specific area of life)?